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Chapter 161: Big Deal III
Chapter 161: Big Deal III
Chapter 161: Big Deal III
Sofia, capital of the Dragona Empire.
A large city with a population of 1 million along a river, where various races, including humans and demons, lived in harmony.
As they rode through the city in a wagon, Bahamut experienced a rather strange feeling.
‘Certainly… a city with a population of 400,000 demons feels different.’
The streets showcased scenes of buildings with vastly different designs. Winged harpies soared freely around towering structures that resembled giant mushrooms. Lizard folk and mermaids leisurely roamed or swam around houses made from straw and rocks along the riverbank.
Werewolves lounged in earthen homes with a primitive, cave-like feel, and demons resembling giant earthworms coiled themselves in muddy puddles scattered throughout the area.
‘This place is more exotic than any other I’ve visited on the continent so far.’
As he observed, Bahamut felt the reality of having entered a fantasy world sink in.
‘Managing such a diverse population couldn’t have been easy. Empress Roseveta’s leadership is truly impressive.’
According to the original work, demons communicated differently from humans, making normal interaction impossible. However, the special mana potion developed by the Rose Empress and the witches broke the language barrier, enabling communication between the two races.Naturally, the differences between demons and humans caused some issues. Yet, thanks to the Rose Empress’s fair governance, no significant conflicts arose.
Over the past 60 years, under Empress Roseveta’s steady leadership, both demons and humans gradually developed a shared sense of belonging as citizens of the same country.
Despite initial discomfort, the strong deterrence maintained by the empire allowed the two races to live together harmoniously, overcoming their differences.
‘This nation’s ability to embrace and integrate diverse races is impressive. And as long as the original setting remains unchanged, Roseveta’s reign will continue. There’s no sudden death or division scenario waiting to happen here.’
There was a reason Bahamut chose to visit this place, even at some risk. It was something he had been preparing for ever since he first arrived in this world. Anxious and excited, he eagerly anticipated his meeting with the Empress.
The wagon finally came to a stop, breaking his thoughts. Sitting before him was his wife, Bertina.
She smiled warmly.
“Shall we go, dear?”
“Yes, that sounds good, honey.”
Still feeling slightly flustered at the unfamiliar term “wife,” Bertina gently accepted Bahamut’s hand as he helped her down from the wagon.
As they exited, the sight of the imperial palace came into view.
Though neat and orderly, Bahamut couldn’t help but feel disappointed. Compared to the grandiose imperial castle of the Holy Church in Rhome, this palace seemed plain and unremarkable.
‘I thought there would be more to see in the Dragona Empire’s palace.’
Though Bahamut disliked excessive extravagance, he believed that wealth should be enjoyed to a degree. He had made a fortune through Eastern trade and used it to buy various goods and decorate his mansion.
But standing before this palace, it felt oddly underwhelming—less grand than his own residence.
‘The person who spent so lavishly at Benessa’s auction is oddly frugal here. Just like the original story described…’
Glad he hadn’t brought any extravagant gifts, Bahamut silently noted the practicality of the Eastern reagents and medicinal materials he had chosen as presents.
***
Bahamut led the way as Bertina walked beside him. Observing them closely was Ophelia, whose expression showed subtle unease. Her senses were alert, scanning her surroundings.
‘This is… where she lives. The White Dragon Princess, Elios Noshelat Dragona.’
Ophelia knew that Elios, having lost the previous battle, would be sharpening her metaphorical swords for revenge. Even though the situation was unfavorable for the princess, defeat was still defeat, and she likely intended to seize any opportunity to reclaim her honor.
From within a nearby window, the White Dragon Princess silently observed the group entering the castle.
Though Ophelia’s sharp senses tried to locate her, Elios skillfully masked her presence, slipping undetected into the shadows.
With no clear sign of her target, Ophelia proceeded cautiously, focusing on guarding Bahamut against any potential threat.
Meanwhile, the White Dragon Princess no longer harbored feelings for Bahamut. Her interest had shifted to Ophelia—the human woman who had bested her.
‘The human woman who defeated me… She didn’t retreat timidly but overwhelmed me entirely. It was a complete defeat.’
A smile of anticipation spread across Elios’s lips as she eyed her sharpened blade.
‘How entertaining… I’d love to challenge her again.’
***
In the depths of the palace, the throne room awaited. Like the rest of the palace, it was simple yet refined.
Bahamut and Bertina approached cautiously and bowed respectfully to the Empress seated on the throne.
“The humble merchant, Bahamut Fernandez, greets His Majesty, the Empress of the Dragona Empire.”
“His wife, Bertina Fernandez, offers her respect to His Majesty as well.”
The merchant couple knelt before Empress Roseveta, who gave them a gentle smile.
“Welcome. You have traveled far to reach us.”
Unlike the cold demeanor Bahamut had expected, the Empress’s expression was sincere and warm.
Looking up at him, Bahamut spoke steadily.
“We are deeply grateful for the opportunity to do business with Your Majesty, despite being mere merchants.”
“Come now, no need for such modesty. Though circumstances were complicated, you have already proven your worth by defeating both the Dragona Empire and the Tarkic Empire once. I am pleased to negotiate with someone of your abilities.”
The Empress’s praise made Bahamut feel slightly uneasy, but he kept his composure.
“I hope to make amends for that past conflict through this partnership, Your Majesty. I am eager to discuss the steps we should take.”
The Empress chuckled softly.
“Excellent. Let’s proceed, then. First, we must change locations.”
At the Empress’s suggestion, Bahamut felt a lingering unease but followed him obediently, with Bertina close by his side.
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The Shop section on Patreon can be used as a way to make a one-time-payment. I will be creating products in the Shop section with the title of the webnovels. It will only have an image as the product, but it will count as the payment for the Sponsored Chapters.
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